Everything you need to know about visiting Saudi Arabia right now
Vaccinated travellers are welcome from all but 10 countries…
After nearly 17 months of suspension, Saudi Arabia reopened its borders to tourists from August 2021. However, in order to prevent the spread of Covid-19, certain restrictions are still in place.
As of now, there are a few countries from which travel is still prohibited and the list is being regularly updated – the UAE, South Africa, and Argentina have recently been removed from the banned list.
Countries still on the banned list include Afghanistan, Brazil, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Lebanon, Pakistan, Turkey, and Vietnam.
Visitors must also be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 with either AstraZeneca, Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna or the Johnson & Johnson vaccines, following 14 days after their final dose.
Travellers must have received both doses of the vaccine, except for those who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, which is a single dose shot. Those who have been vaccinated with Sinovac or Sinopharm, a booster shot from one of the four recognised vaccines needs to have been administered.
A negative PCR test that was taken no longer than 72 hours before departure is also required. Additionally, visitors must register their details with Saudi health authorities via an online form and have travel insurance which covers any medical costs related to COVID-19 during their stay.
Visitors will not have to quarantine once in the Kingdom.
A visit visa is also likely to be required, depending on which passport the visitor holds – more details on the requirement and eligibility of visas can be found on the official tourism website.
Saudi Arabia also uses the track and trace app, Tawakkalna, which is required for entry to many public places in the Kingdom, including shopping malls, cinemas, restaurants and entertainment venues. Visitors will need to download the app and fill in their information before travel.
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